A Psychology student on the DEN New York trip, the 2025 conference where she discovered how much of it was student-led, and finding a space where a quieter student’s voice still travels
Grace Villagomez-Akre, BSc Psychology, University of Westminster, United Kingdom
Part of the Inside Westminster anniversary series marking ten years of the Democratic Education Network.
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How did you first come into contact with DEN?
I first came into contact with DEN through the online advertisements on Blackboard. I was intrigued by the field and wanted to join a society. This was the push I needed to broaden my horizons. I saw DEN as an opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone and to meet new people. At the time, I did not know what to expect, but it was the push I needed to try something new and get more involved in university life.
Which DEN activities have you taken part in?
The New York trip, where I was fortunate to spend four days exploring the city and the UN headquarters. That was an experience I would not normally have had if I had not had the opportunity to join. I also took part in the 2025 and 2026 DEN conferences, meeting new people and contributing to a group presentation. Being able to participate, rather than just watching, made the conference particularly memorable for me.
Was there a moment at DEN that has stayed with you?
The 2025 DEN conference. It was my first time attending an event like that, and I was surprised to find how much of it was student-led. Despite it being a large event, I did not feel like just another person in the audience. What stood out most was how normal and welcoming the environment felt. The fact that it was a student-led event made it feel more accessible. It showed me how students can organise and contribute to meaningful events and discussions, rather than just being passive participants.
What aspects of DEN have had the biggest impact on you?
The 2025 conference again, and the surprise of it. I did not feel excluded because it was student-led, and being able to contribute made it feel quite normal. Even though it was a big event, at least to me, it was surprisingly ordinary in the best sense. That contrast, between the size of what we had built and the ease of being inside it, is what stays with me.
How has DEN helped you develop personally?
By giving me opportunities to grow, particularly by encouraging me to participate in situations I would normally find intimidating. Whether it was contributing to conferences, teaming up with other students, speaking to new people, or getting involved in different activities, I have slowly become more comfortable putting myself forward.
Has DEN helped you with employability or professional development?
Thanks to DEN, I have added many accomplishments to my CV and LinkedIn profile. One of the biggest things I have gained is confidence. I would not describe myself as someone who naturally wants to be the centre of attention, so having a space where I could contribute in my own way mattered. DEN showed me that I do not need to change myself in order to contribute. I need to be willing to take the opportunity when it comes.
What is one thing DEN has given you that you would have struggled to find elsewhere?
Flying abroad. Honestly, I am too broke for that.
But the real answer is the opportunity to travel internationally and experience something completely outside of my normal routine. As a student, travelling abroad is not always financially feasible, so having DEN create opportunities like the New York trip made something I might otherwise have struggled to do much more accessible. Beyond the travelling itself, DEN gave me a reason to travel with a purpose. I was not just going abroad as a tourist. I was able to experience New York, visit the UN headquarters, befriend other students, and connect the experience to something I was actively involved in at university. The combination of travel, education and community is something I could not have recreated on my own.
What advice would you give to students thinking of joining?
Believe it or not, it is a space for students to get together. You do not need to be the loudest person in the room or to constantly speak up. If you like to listen, there is still a place for you. If you do not want to speak, that is fine too. Farhang will make your voice heard anyway. There are so many opportunities for students to get together and be heard, whether through a blog or an interview. There are just too many opportunities for you to miss.
What would you say to a colleague at another university?
Nothing you have there can compare to DEN at my university.
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Photo caption: “A Psychology student lens.”
